'The Incredibles 2' Review

The Incredibles is one of Pixar's many nailed on 5 star classics. It's popularity made the possibility of a sequel a near certainty. Now, after taking several forms in the development merry-go-round over a whopping 14 year gap, the Parr family are finally back in action. Whilst Incredibles 2 doesn't quite reach the same heights as the original, it's still a hugely entertaining movie.

Unlike the 14 year break between films, the story picks up immediately after the first film ends. Supers are still illegal and their reputations are being further tarnished by media. The Parr's fear they will be forced back into hiding, until they are approached by two wealthy benefactors who want to put superheroes 'back in the sunlight'. The catch is that whilst Elastigirl is out trying to catch the mysterious 'Screenslaver', Mr Incredible is left at home to deal with all the obstacles that come with a anxious teenage girl, a hyperactive pre-teen boy and polymorphic baby.

It was a smart move from Brad Bird to resist moving the universe forwards along with the real world. The opening scene of this film comes literally seconds after the epilogue of the first with the Underminer attacking the city. Whilst it might have been fun to the the superheroes with a bit more autonomy (we undoubtedly will down the line), continuing the story in the already well established world gives this movie a point of difference from other superhero films. The heroes' pent up frustrations at the hostility and scepticism thrown their way and their subsequent attempts to break free from them was one of the first film's most joyful elements and it's good to see that concept continued here.

Bird also develops the family drama aspect of the series to good effect here. Pixar movies in general have always been great at blending the ordinary with the extraordinary and this film is a prime example. Among the action and chaos, the movie isn't afraid to slow down and show some more intimate family moments. Certain beats like Mr Incredible struggling to help Dash with his homework because they have 'changed math' and Helen and Bob discussing the intricacies of her new job through mouthfuls of toothpaste feel relatable and familiar, which makes the dynamic of the family all the more genuine.

The action throughout this film is really great and there are some extremely entertaining and humorous set pieces. All of Elastigirl's new assignments are engaging and tense, keeping up with the Bond esque tone established in the first movie. The powers of the Parr family and the new roster of heroes are used in some really clever and inventive ways, with Void being my pick of the new bunch. The star of the show, though, is Jack-Jack. His seemingly unlimited range of powers are at the forefront of many of the movies best scenes, including one particular sequence with a racoon that had my howling with laughter. He is hilarious (almost always unintentionally) and I'm eager to see what they do with his character going forward.

If I had one complaint, it would have to be the villain. The limitations of the antagonist might be the only thing separating this film from the quality of the first. Yet, whilst Syndrome was an original and interesting villain, Screenslaver falls a little flat. The idea of the character is a fairly intriguing one, but the 'reveal' of their real identity comes far too late into the story and is signposted so heavily throughout that even the youngsters will see it coming.

Overall, I had a great time with The Incredible 2. It may have a weak villain, but the enthralling action, charming family dynamic and Jack-Jack's antics ('Jack-Jantics' if you will) ensure this is a highly entertaining film that the whole family can enjoy.

4/5 Stars

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